7 years later

September 11, a day that I can't seem to define with words, a day of feelings that I can't explain, emotions that with time have not dimmed. As I reflect today the emotions are the same as they were 7 years ago, that lump in the throat, the headache from holding back the tears, the exhausted feeling of heart ache and pain for those who lost their loved ones, the awe of heroism, strength, determination, and undying love. I am sure for most a multitude of emotions were felt that day, for some everyday since, and for others upon reflection the feelings are brought to the for front. I remember that morning being unaware of what was unfolding, I received a phone call from Mike who had said he needed me to get his stuff ready that he would be leaving. Confused I remember asking him where he was going.... a pause on the other end of the phone, Mike realized I had not yet turned on the T.V. or the radio that morning. A quiet direct" you need to turn on the T.V." and as I sat there in silence holding the phone, a dull numb feeling came over me as I realized where Mike was headed. The call ended, very few words were spoken. I took a min. to try to gather my thoughts, wrap up the emotion, and headed to Salt Lake. Mike went with the Utah Task Force 1. A division of FEMA. To assist in the efforts at Ground Zero. As the team headed out in buses. I remember so profoundly the renewed sense of gratitude that I know that we owe those who send their children, fathers, mothers, friends, husbands and wives to fight and defend our country. The gratitude that we owes those willing to leave, and go and fight, and sacrifice everything they have on our behalf. Though Mike was not headed to war I am sure my feelings of emptiness, fear, anticipation of what he would see and experience are very much the same of those who send loved ones to defend the very freedoms that all to often I take for granted. I am glad for the constant reminders of this day, it helps to keep in perspective all that is truly important. In a world that is chaotic and disappointing, It is good to know there will always be those that we call Hero's. Hero's that come from every walk of life. Hero's that do small and simple things to Hero's that do the unthinkable. And this day is a day for me that redefined Heroism.